Different Types of Dinnerware

Get the Dish on Different Kinds of Dinnerware

Future newlyweds, are you thinking of investing in a full set of china? It's a big, big porcelain world out there, and there are a few things you should probably know before settling on the perfect set of china. First things first: not all ceramic dinnerware is the same! The quality of china depends on a number of variables, from firing temperatures to clay content — but familiarize yourself with these four categories, and you'll be one step ahead of the game. Learn more when you keep reading.

Earthenware, the oldest form of dinnerware, is fired at low temperatures. It includes unglazed pieces, such as terra cotta, but servingware is often glazed to keep out moisture. It isn't as translucent as porcelain, and can have a tendency to crack when faced with extreme temperature changes. However, it also tends to be the least expensive.

Stoneware was the predominant type of dinnerware used in the 1800s. Known for its durability, stoneware's stronger than earthenware, but still more opaque than its haute sister, porcelain. Most pieces are microwave- and dishwasher-safe, but double-check to make sure, and also be careful with sudden temperature fluctuations.

Although porcelain (also called fine china) is coveted for its delicate demeanor and thin, nearly translucent appearance, don't be fooled: the stuff is actually quite durable, and, generally speaking, will fit right into your microwave or dishwasher.

Bone china was first developed in England; it's fine china with bone ash used as an added ingredient to create an even whiter, transparent effect. This is the crème de la crème of china.

If you have a pattern on your bone china and it is rubbing off return the goods, they are defective.
No pattern should come off of bone china or porcelain unless it is not fired at the correct temperature.
Talk to the store employees and find out of the fired on design is in glaze or on glaze. If in glaze it will never come off. If on glaze and not fired properly yes it coudl rub off.

We ended up with bone china, and we actually use it as our everyday dishes! It turns out the only reason you're not usually supposed to use bone china every day is the patterns, which can rub off if you use them too much. Ours are all white so we don't have that issue!